After 14 years, Nick Young selling John’s Pizza

After more than 14 years of ownership, one of Ridgecrest’s historical icons is being put back on the market.

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By Jack Barnwelljbarnwell@ridgecrestca.com

Ridgecrest Daily Independent - Ridgecrest, CA

By Jack Barnwelljbarnwell@ridgecrestca.com

Posted Dec. 27, 2012 at 1:26 PM
Updated Dec 27, 2012 at 1:29 PM

By Jack Barnwelljbarnwell@ridgecrestca.com

Posted Dec. 27, 2012 at 1:26 PM
Updated Dec 27, 2012 at 1:29 PM

After more than 14 years of ownership, one of Ridgecrest’s historical icons is being put back on the market.

John’s Pizza, which celebrated its 40th anniversary this year, is up for sale, according to owner Nick Young.

“It’s been great owning John’s Pizza,” Young said Wednesday.

The decision to sale Young’s came in November after some decision making, Young said, in part to help pay off accrued debt from the restaurant ventures of Nickoletti’s Pizza and Nickoletti’s Cafe, which were located next to Red Bowl Asian Bistro on China Lake Boulevard.

Young said the businesses didn’t pan out and now is moving to put John’s Pizza on the market to help settle some debts.

“We acquired debt that needs to be made good on,” he said.

Nickoletti’s Pizza closed its doors this year while Nickoletti’s Cafe changed hands years ago and operates under a different name and owner.

Despite this, he said the restaurant itself has done okay with sales, especially given that it has what he said is a great customer base.

John’s Pizza has a long-established history over four decades and three owners, and is known for its pizza, large game room and lunch buffet.

It was originally owned by John and Betty Parlett for 14 years, when they first opened the doors in 1972. The restaurant changed hands to Glen Covert, who owned it for 12 years, before Young took over in 1998.

Young had been a patron of the restaurant in his childhood.

“My first impression was was how big it was and how fun it was,” Young said. “I know when you’re a kid, it’s not about what you eat but where you eat.”

For Young, part of the experience behind owning the landmark business was the community support and atmosphere.

“The best memories are seeing families and friends getting together,” Young said. “They come home to John’s and people just appreciate it. That’s what I will always have in my heart.”

Young said however he needed to sell it and has a few offers already.

“If someone has ever dreamed of opening up a restaurant, this is definitely a great opportunity with an established customer base,” Young said. “It’s priced very fair.”

However, Young made it clear that John’s will continue to dish out more pizza pies, especially with community support.

“We have not given up on John’s Pizza,” he said. “We are hoping with Ridgecrest, John’s Pizza will be around for another 40 years.”